10Best.Guide

Surround Sound Speakers

Top Picks

Last Updated: November, 2023
Pros
  • Great sound quality for the price
  • Easy to adjust gains and settings for optimal performance
  • Good alternative to more expensive brands
  • Impressive sound for home theater use
  • Solid low-end performance
Cons
  • Poor bass and distortion at high volumes
  • Inconsistent delivery and missing speakers in some orders
Bottom Line
These speakers offer great sound quality at an affordable price, making them a good choice for home theater and surround sound installations. However, they may not be suitable for those seeking deep bass or expecting consistent delivery.
Pros
  • Capable performers when matched with quality components
  • Impressive sound stage and detail when paired with a subwoofer
  • Banana plug option for easy setup
  • Clean sound that fills a smaller room
  • Great bass when placed on a shelf
Cons
  • Not great bass without an active subwoofer
  • Don't take higher volumes as well
Bottom Line
The Klipsch R-41M speakers are a good choice for those looking for clean sound in a smaller room or as surround sound speakers. However, they may require an active subwoofer for better bass and don't perform as well at higher volumes.
Pros
  • Versatile mounting options
  • Clear and good sound quality
  • Solid build quality
  • Available in white
  • Can be used in surround sound systems
Cons
  • Lack of mounting hardware
  • Poor instructions for attaching speaker stands
Bottom Line
These speakers are a versatile and reliable option for surround sound systems, with clear sound quality and a solid build. However, buyers should be aware of the lack of mounting hardware and potential color inconsistencies.
Pros
  • Wide sound field and clear sound
  • Good sensitivity
  • Affordable option for surround sound
  • Excellent value for the price
  • Easy to wire and mount
Cons
  • Treble can be too hot
  • Grills don't fit well on the speakers
Bottom Line
The Fluance SXBP2 speakers offer a wide sound field and clear sound at an affordable price, making them a great option for surround sound. However, they may have some limitations in terms of treble, grill fit, and frequency range.
Pros
  • Easy setup and syncing with existing Samsung soundbar and TV.
  • Good sound quality for the size.
  • Affordable alternative to more expensive brands.
  • Bluetooth connectivity works well.
  • Sleek and unobtrusive design.
Cons
  • Limited volume output.
  • Instructions and manual are not comprehensive.
Bottom Line
These Samsung rear speakers are a budget-friendly option that provides decent sound quality and easy setup. However, they have limited volume output and may require some troubleshooting during setup.

The Ultimate Buying Guide for Surround Sound Speakers

Overview

Surround sound speakers are an essential component of any home theater setup, delivering an immersive audio experience that enhances your movie-watching or gaming sessions. With a wide range of options available, choosing the right surround sound speakers can be overwhelming. This comprehensive buying guide will walk you through the different types, key considerations, features, prices, and expert tips to help you make an informed decision and optimize your audio setup.

Types

1. 5.1 Surround Sound Systems: The most common type, consisting of five speakers (front left, front right, center, rear left, and rear right) and a subwoofer for low-frequency effects.

2. 7.1 Surround Sound Systems: Similar to 5.1 systems, but with two additional rear speakers for a more immersive surround sound experience.

3. Dolby Atmos Speaker Systems: These systems add overhead speakers or upward-firing speakers to create a three-dimensional sound experience, with sound coming from all directions, including above.

4. Soundbars with Surround Sound: Compact and easy to set up, soundbars offer a virtual surround sound experience without the need for multiple speakers.

Key Considerations

1. Room Size and Layout: Consider the dimensions and layout of your room to determine the ideal speaker configuration and placement.

2. Speaker Power and Sensitivity: Higher power and sensitivity ratings ensure louder and clearer sound reproduction.

3. Wired or Wireless: Decide whether you prefer the convenience of wireless speakers or the reliability of wired connections.

4. Compatibility: Ensure that the speakers are compatible with your existing audio equipment and devices.

5. Brand Reputation and Customer Reviews: Research reputable brands and read customer reviews to gauge the quality and performance of the speakers.

Features

1. Frequency Response: Look for a wide frequency range to ensure accurate sound reproduction across low, mid, and high frequencies.

2. Impedance: Consider the speaker's impedance to ensure compatibility with your audio receiver or amplifier.

3. Connectivity Options: Check for multiple connectivity options such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, HDMI, and optical inputs for versatile connectivity.

4. Speaker Placement Options: Some speakers offer wall-mounting options or adjustable stands for flexible placement.

5. Voice Control and Smart Features: Certain speakers come with built-in voice assistants or smart features for seamless integration with your smart home ecosystem.

Prices

Surround sound speakers can vary greatly in price. Entry-level systems start around $200, while high-end systems can cost several thousand dollars. Consider your budget and prioritize features that matter most to you.

Tips

1. Optimal Speaker Placement: Follow recommended guidelines for speaker placement to achieve the best surround sound experience.

2. Room Acoustics: Consider room acoustics and use acoustic treatments, such as curtains or sound-absorbing panels, to minimize sound reflections and enhance audio quality.

3. Calibration and Setup: Take advantage of speaker calibration tools or professional setup services to optimize the audio performance of your surround sound system.

FAQs

Q: How many speakers do I need for a surround sound system?

Q: Can I mix and match speakers from different brands?

Q: Do I need a separate amplifier or receiver for surround sound speakers?

Q: Are wireless surround sound speakers as good as wired ones?

Q: How do I connect surround sound speakers to my TV?

A: Conclusion:

By considering the types, key considerations, features, prices, and expert tips outlined in this buying guide, you'll be well-equipped to choose the perfect surround sound speakers for your home theater setup. Enhance your audio experience and immerse yourself in the world of movies, music, and gaming with a high-quality surround sound system.

Runner-Ups

Pros
  • Easy configuration for different setups
  • Excellent build quality
  • Integrates well with existing surround systems
  • Good sound quality for non-audiophiles
  • Reasonable price for high-quality sound
Cons
  • Lack of detail in high frequencies for some users
  • Not as punchy or clear as expected
Bottom Line
The Polk Signature Elite ES20 bookshelf speakers offer excellent build quality, easy configuration, and high-quality sound at a reasonable price. They provide amazing clarity and soundstage, making them a great choice for music and home theater systems. However, some users may find the lack of detail in high frequencies and the bright treble to be drawbacks.
Pros
  • Great sound quality for the price
  • Stylish design with magnetic grills
  • Powerful subwoofer
  • Good mid and high ranges
  • Dolby Atmos capability
Cons
  • Inconsistent customer service
  • Subwoofer may have issues
Bottom Line
The Klipsch Reference Theater Pack offers great sound quality and stylish design at an affordable price, but potential issues with the subwoofer and inconsistent customer service should be considered.
Pros
  • Good sound quality for the price
  • Easy to set up and operate
  • Dialog enhancement feature
  • Virtual surround works well
  • Compact size
Cons
  • Satellite speakers may blow out
  • Side speakers and subwoofer may not work
Bottom Line
This soundbar system offers good sound quality and features for the price, with easy setup and operation. However, some customers have experienced issues with the satellite speakers and subwoofer, and the new model does not include an HDMI input.
Pros
  • Easy and quick setup
  • Incredible sound quality
  • Wireless subwoofer with impressive low end
  • Improved volume compared to previous models
  • Compatible with Samsung TVs
Cons
  • Average sound quality for higher frequencies
  • Packaging and handling could be better
Bottom Line
The Samsung HW-R450 soundbar offers easy setup, incredible sound quality, and a wireless subwoofer with impressive low end. It is compatible with Samsung TVs and provides improved volume compared to previous models. However, it may have average sound quality for higher frequencies and packaging and handling could be better. Overall, it is a good option for those looking for a mid-grade range soundbar with good value for the price.
Pros
  • Good value for the price
  • Sturdy closed enclosures
  • Unobtrusive design
  • Can be easily pointed for best sound
  • Can be used in an array of speakers
Cons
  • Mediocre sound quality
  • No wiring included
Bottom Line
These speakers are a good value for the price and have a sturdy, unobtrusive design. They are best suited for use as rear speakers in a home theater system and can be easily pointed for the best sound. However, they may not be suitable for THX certified installations and the sound quality may not be exceptional. Additionally, they do not come with wiring included.
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